A significant Faith & Health Networking Board gathering brought together national cancer leaders, faith representatives, unpaid carers, cancer champions, NHS partners, community organisations, and grassroots leaders at the Oswal Centre in Potters Bar for an important conversation on health inequalities, community support, and compassionate care.
Led by One Vision, the event welcomed senior leaders from Macmillan Cancer Support, including Chief Executive Officer Gemma Peters and Director of Communities and System Partnerships Heather McLean, alongside public health leaders, interfaith representatives, and community organisations committed to strengthening community-centred support and tackling health inequalities.
Throughout the day, conversations focused on cancer inequalities, prevention, loneliness, unpaid carers, culturally intelligent care, and the importance of supporting individuals with dignity, compassion, and humanity. A recurring message emerged strongly: communities are best served when organisations move beyond buildings and intentionally engage people where they are.
Participants reflected on the reality that many individuals experiencing illness, hardship, caring responsibilities, or isolation often suffer quietly behind closed doors. Discussions highlighted the need to create trusted spaces where people feel valued, heard, and supported regardless of background, faith, or circumstance.
Biblical principles of compassion and service shaped many conversations. Matthew 25:40 “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” – and Galatians 6:2 – “Carry each other’s burdens” – reflected the spirit of partnership and service evident throughout the gathering.
Among those attending were Sharon Platt-McDonald, BUC Director for Women’s Ministries, Health Ministries and Adventist Community Services; Dr Jude Jeanville; Dr Tanvir Alam, GP and Deputy Medical Director; and Pastor João Macedo from St Albans, who attended alongside his wife in support of stronger faith and community partnerships.
Speaking during the event, Enoch Kanagaraj BEM DL, founder and CEO of One Vision, emphasised the importance of practical compassion and visible presence within communities.
“Today reminded us that real impact happens when we move beyond conversations and genuinely connect with people in our communities. Across Hertfordshire, many individuals are carrying silent struggles – whether through illness, caring responsibilities, loneliness, poverty, or fear.
“As people of faith and community leaders, we are called not only to speak about compassion, but to demonstrate it through action, presence, and service.”
Sharon Platt-McDonald reflected on the diversity and collaboration evident during the gathering:
“It was inspiring to witness such a diverse range of leaders and community voices united around compassion, wellbeing, and hope. The conversations were deeply moving and highlighted the importance of working together to support those affected by cancer and hardship.”
Dr Jude Jeanville added:
“Faith communities have a unique role in bringing comfort, encouragement, and healing into people’s lives. Galatians 6:2 reminds us to ‘Carry each other’s burdens,’ and that spirit was reflected strongly throughout today’s gathering.”
Dr Tanvir Alam highlighted the importance of trusted relationships within healthcare engagement:
“Faith matters because trust matters. If we genuinely want to reduce inequalities and improve outcomes, we must work alongside faith communities with humility, understanding, and cultural intelligence.”
The event also highlighted the continued growth of the Faith & Health Networking Board, which continues building stronger relationships between faith settings, healthcare providers, local authorities, and community organisations across Hertfordshire.
As One Vision continues its work across the region, its message remains clear: meaningful change happens when compassion, partnership, and practical service work together.
